INDIANAPOLIS — 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy’s level of preparation rubbed off on Iowa State defensive back Anthony Johnson.
Purdy’s former college teammate spoke to NBC Sports Bay Area this week at the NFL Scouting Combine, and shared his thoughts on the quarterback’s success.
"I was not surprised at all because I've seen his work ethic and what he does on a daily basis," Johnson said. "I'm just proud of him. That's my guy. Brock's a great guy. So deserving."
While spending a significant amount of time with Purdy at Iowa State, Johnson noticed the play-caller’s methodical preparation. It made an impact on the young defensive back, in a positive way.
"It's something definitely different, above from what you see from normal guys," Johnson said. "I actually took bits and pieces of how Brock goes about his day, and how he goes about his business, and implemented it into my game and my preparation, and it's helped me a lot."
Johnson shared that he previously met with 49ers representatives at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl at the end of January, but he doesn't have a meeting scheduled with team representatives while at the combine.
The 6-foot-0, 200-pound prospect played cornerback for most of his time at Iowa State, but he moved to safety in his final season with the Cyclones, and also is a special-teams contributor. Johnson believes his versatility has helped prepare him for the challenges of an NFL career.
San Francisco 49ers
Maybe even a bigger factor is the Iowa State product's Purdy-style work ethic. Johnson, of course, would love to have the chance to reunite with his former teammate, whom he sees as a standout on the field.
"He has that 'it' factor," Johnson said. "He's that guy. He is a highly competitive guy, and he is a great guy as well."
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Johnson hasn't been in touch with his former quarterback recently, but he plans to reach out during the offseason.